Julián Alvarez races against time to be fit for Madrid derby

After Atlético's big win over Osasuna with four goals, Diego Simeone granted his players a day off, while some players chose to attend the club's facilities in Majadahonda for individual training.

Julián Alvarez was one of the standout names on the pitch as the Argentine forward began working in the gym before moving on to ball training on the field alongside Zahinos, a member of the recovery staff at Atlético.

Julián Alvarez spent about half an hour on physical work, but he particularly focused on regaining his feel for the ball through short drills using the sole and instep of his foot, alongside technical exercises that involved different muscle groups.

At the end of the training session, Julián Alvarez increased the intensity of his physical work, having completed two sprints at maximum speed, indicating his desire to accelerate the recovery process and prepare for the anticipated match against Real Madrid in the capital derby.

Julián Alvarez has several days left before the derby scheduled for next Sunday in the seventh round of La Liga, making his condition during the upcoming training sessions an important factor in determining his readiness for the match.

If he reaches the required physical readiness, his inclusion in Simeone's plans is expected, but Atlético's impressive performance against Osasuna, especially Jonathan David's display, may increase competition for attacking positions and provide the Argentine coach with additional options when selecting the starting lineup.